For many stories, the protagonists' pride is usually shown and explained by the narrator or secondary characters. Yet in the Beowulf of the Anglo-Saxons, translated by Seamus Heaney, his pride is reinforced by himself; he is satisfied in knowing that he is letting everyone know his value and importance to the world. Before every battle, he would show up with such a pretentious way of fighting and boasting. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay At the beginning of Beowulf's journey through life, he is considered a great warrior. While he is a hero that includes loyalty, courtesy, and a slight maturity as he refines his values ​​and ways; Beowulf is quite boastful and arrogant. Since Unferth is afraid of Grendel and does not resist a threat, Beowulf is not afraid of him. Just like Unferth who still doubted Beowulf's fighting abilities, he commented, "When it comes to fighting, I count myself every day as dangerous as Grendel." Since he doesn't like it when people don't believe in him, Beowulf easily accepts challenges to prove himself and his worth. He soon becomes so proud of himself that many people tend to disbelieve in his abilities. Yet, Grendel is convinced, “he will find me different”. As he defeats his strong opponent, Beowulf is satisfied with the glory he is given afterward and continues to fight only to maintain the pursuit of the glory he receives after completing his challenges. Toward the end of the Epic, Beowulf is older and wiser. Although his pride does not fail him in his battles, he soon encounters one that he will not be able to defeat. His encounter with the dragon shows how mature he is. Just like anyone would when he grows up, Beowulf decides to reflect on the responsibilities of a king who acts not only for himself and his glorification, but also for the good of his people. Since some people's characteristics do not grow with their age, Beowulf's ego and boastfulness continued to remain a part of him. Before they reach his opponent's lair, his ego becomes more apparent as he says, "What I mean, here, no man but me / Could hope to defeat this monster" while reluctantly telling his own men, "this fight will not it is yours / nor depends on anyone else but me”. Once he has decided to fight his battle against the dragon, Beowulf neglects his own death, while he is more interested in his own fame and honor they abandon him, Beowulf gracefully meets his end. Even after slaying the dragon, Beowulf continues to seek glory. He pleads with his people to build a tower in his memory: "It looms on the horizon in Hronesness / and it will be a memory. among my people". Beowulf wants to leave with his fame known to all since a mere memory of him is not enough to please him. Keep in mind: this is just an example. Get a personalized paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Beowulf was always a strong hero, yet every monster he faced helped contribute to his character's development. Pride is believed to be fueled by one's achievements and self-esteem, but its presence was not known enough to continuously accept battles to gain more glory.